California Republicans Criticize Governor Over Parole Decision
California Republicans are expressing strong disapproval of Governor Gavin Newsom’s recent comments regarding the parole of serial child rapist David Allen Funston. Newsom stated that his “hands are tied” after the state parole board decided to uphold Funston’s release.
Senator Suzette Martinez Valladares (R-Santa Clarita) and others from the Senate Republican caucus have been vocal about their concerns. In a letter to Newsom, they urged him to take action against members of the California Parole Hearings Board, which voted in favor of Funston’s release just last week.
“I felt sick when I learned about Funston’s parole,” Valladares remarked. “It’s horrifying to consider the pain he inflicted on his young victims. How can such a monster be allowed to go free?”
David Allen Funston, 64, was convicted in 1999 on multiple counts of kidnapping and child molestation involving several young children. Living in suburban Sacramento, Funston lured at least eight children, including seven girls and one boy, using candy and toys like Barbie dolls.
One of his victims, a five-year-old girl who was an immigrant and struggled with English, was assaulted and left 80 miles away from her home.
In 2020, Funston was granted parole through California’s expanded elderly parole program, known as AB 3234, which Newsom signed. This system allows inmates over 50 who have served at least 20 years to petition for release, even if they are serving life sentences.
Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper commented on the parole board’s ruling during a press conference. “It’s astounding that those who claim to prioritize the safety of women and children aren’t protesting this decision,” Cooper noted. “What he did can never be forgiven.”
The governor’s office has yet to respond to requests for comment regarding future actions. Newsom has stated that state law restricts his ability to overturn decisions made by the parole board.
Diana Crofts Pelayo, a spokesperson for the governor, mentioned, “The Office of Parole Hearings is independent and made this choice. The governor does not support this outcome.”
Republicans strongly oppose the decision. In a letter dated February 26, GOP state senators labeled the ruling “unconscionable,” emphasizing that Funston poses a continued threat to children.
Senate Minority Leader Brian Jones (R-San Diego) criticized the governor for attempting to sidestep accountability. He highlighted that Newsom signed legislation allowing a board to release violent offenders into the community. Jones has previously introduced bills aimed at changing parole for elderly inmates to prevent releases like Funston’s, but faced hurdles from Democrats.
“Please cease your feigned outrage, Governor,” Jones added. “You are the architect of this entire system.”
